by Southland Dental Care on August 31, 2010
Specialists warn us that millions of people around the world put their health and well-being to risk by placing their toothbrushes in a close proximity to the lavatory which can be a source of thousands of harmful bacteria. When we flush our toilet, those pathogenic bacteria are sprayed around and land on various surfaces located around, including our toothbrushes. That is why it is dangerous to keep the toothbrushes in an opened container.
The scientists say that after flashing, harmful and lethal bacteria can fly up to six feet away from the lavatory. At that, according to the latest statistics, every second toothbrush is kept in less than 40 inches away from the lavatory. This way, thousands of harmful bacteria is found on such brushes, including Candida, streptococcus, ecoli and staphylococci. This situation requires immediate action for the sake of improving dental health of modern people.
by Southland Dental Care on August 20, 2010
The health complications of being overweight, such as increased risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and certain cancers, have long been reported. Health care professionals urge patients to manage their weight and strive to get physical exercise each day to achieve and maintain overall health.
Now, researchers have now uncovered another benefit of maintaining a fit lifestyle: healthy teeth and gums.
In a study published in the August issue of the Journal of Periodontology, researchers found that subjects who maintained a healthy weight and had high levels of physical fitness had a lower incidence of severe periodontitis. Using body mass index (BMI) and percent body fat as a measure of weight control, and maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) as a measure of physical fitness, researchers compared subjects’ weight and fitness variables with the results of a periodontal examination. Those with the lowest BMI and highest levels of fitness had significantly lower rates of severe periodontitis.
Here is an abstract of the study
Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the supporting bone and tissues around the teeth. Gum disease is a major cause of tooth loss in adults, and research has suggested gum disease is associated with other diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Dr. Hanookai and Dr. Abaian believe that research connecting overall health and periodontal health should motivate people to maintain a healthy weight and get enough physical fitness.
They as well as the rest of Southland Dental Care encourage comprehensive periodontal care through daily tooth brushing and flossing, and routine visits to a dental professional, such as a periodontist, a specialist in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of gum disease.
